Spotlight Chick Sally Rudnick

Spotlight Chick: Sally Rudnick

Tell us about yourself so that we can get to know you better.

I grew up in a musical family, specifically barbershop. I truly thought EVERYONE woke up in the morning signing, harmonizing with choreography! Born in St Petersburg, Florida I moved with my family to Battlecreek, Michigan, then Memphis, Tennessee(yes by Graceland) and finally settled in Portland,Oregon. My college major was theatre which began at Lewis & Clark and was completed at San Diego State University. I was introduced to children’s theatre and actually got hired for a pilot project using creative dramatics to raise children’s self esteem. I worked in 10 classrooms with several hundred kids. I was hooked and went on to earn my teaching credential. At 31 I became a late deafened adult with just 14% hearing for 18 years. In 2001 I had my first cochlear implant and have been blessed with the ability to participate in conversations, but no longer hear the same “tune” needed to harmonize. The blessing is my daughter, who carries on the music talent in our family. She has a gift for singing, playing guitar, beat boxing and more. As for me? No worries. I still sing every day in the car and around the house.

What inspired you to do what you do professionally?

My love for raising self esteem for over 30 years in the classroom lead to a bigger project of building confidence in adults. I love helping people feel good about themselves and confident in knowing that each person is unique and has their gifts. I’ve been a skin care advocate for over 50 years and was introduced to my favorite hot pink towel just a little over a year ago. When I saw that this could remove any kind of makeup, grease, day grime off the skin with just water I had to have it! Each time I show this “eraser” I love seeing people’s reaction. “WOW!” is the most common. Now our line has expanded into skin care tools, professional grade makeup and more. So I simply share what I love and bring the FUN.

Tell us a story of how you made a difference in someone’s life.

I remember coaching a new consultant who had loved the skin care product I shared with her. She was hesitant about “selling”, so I reassured all she had to do was invite friends, tell her story about what the product had done for her skin, assuring her I’d be there to lead the way. She became a star! Her kind words have stayed in my heart. After I congratulated her on doing such a wonderful job achieving personal goals and growing a team, she replied, “I never would’ve come this far without you.” Awwww

What have you gained personally from being a member of Chicks Connect?

Chicks Connect has been such a positive group of women for me. When I lost a dear friend to cancer, my chicks flocked around me and embraced me with hugs and kind words. That’s when I knew they were my tribe. I’ve met many women through Chicks Connect and I have found that compassion is a common attribute, regardless of the chapter.

What have you gained professionally from being a member of Chicks Connect?

My professional gains from Chicks Connect have been abundant. OMG! To name a few would be; skills to compliment my personal and professional life from organization to leadership plus personal development. I’ve had opportunities to travel outside our region and attend events where our founder, Jewels, has been a speaker. I’ve been to CCIC and have made personal and professional connections.

Any words of wisdom for other Chicks?

Jump in. Participate.Take advantage of online and in person meet ups with other members. Be a big sis!

How can people reach you if they want to know more about what you are up to in the world?